Maggie Hassan Questions HHS Nominee on Measles Response and LIHEAP Cuts

Nominee's Stance on Following the Law

• ⚖️ Nominee Mr. O'Neal stated that he would always follow the law and that the president would not ask him to break it.
• 🏛️ Mr. Andre echoed this sentiment, agreeing that it is important to follow the law and that he does not believe the president would ask him to break it.
• ⚠️ Senator Hassan expressed skepticism, citing the president's statements about the Constitution and pardons for individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol attack.

Measles Outbreak and Vaccine Efficacy

• 📈 Nearly a thousand Americans have contracted measles, and two children have died since the president took office, marking the first measles deaths in over 20 years.
• 💉 Mr. O'Neal affirmed his strong support for the MMR vaccine, stating he and his children have received it.
• ❓ When asked if Secretary Kennedy's response to the measles outbreak was effective, Mr. O'Neal stated he was not aware of the cause of the current situation but agreed with the secretary's advocacy for the MMR vaccine.
• 🗣️ Senator Hassan questioned the effectiveness of the response, noting Secretary Kennedy's promotion of unproven remedies like Vitamin A for measles recovery, which may be causing liver damage in children.

Departmental Guidance and Medical Professionals

• 🔬 Mr. O'Neal stated that the department and physicians should always pursue the best and most rigorous science in all recommendations and treatments.
• 🧑‍⚕️ When asked if medical professionals would have the final say over Secretary Kennedy regarding medical guidance, Mr. O'Neal emphasized that physicians have a responsibility to make the best recommendations to their patients based on the best information.

LIHEAP Program and Staffing Decisions

• 🏠 The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), established over four decades ago, helps over 25,000 Granite Staters pay their heating bills.
• ✂️ President Trump and Secretary Kennedy recently fired the entire staff administering the LIHEAP program at HHS.
• 🥶 Without LIHEAP, seniors and families with children are at risk of not being able to afford heat during dangerously cold winters.
• 🔄 Mr. O'Neal, if confirmed, would hold himself responsible for all departmental activities and stated that if a mistake has been made, it should be corrected promptly.